European seed potato multiplication area declines 1.6 percent in 2026

Across the six major European production areas covered by ESPG data - the Netherlands, France, Germany, Scotland, Denmark and Belgium - the seed potato multiplication area stands at 105,155 hectares in 2026.

This represents a decrease of 1,710 hectares (-1.6%) compared with 2025. The figures indicate a modest overall reduction in the European seed potato multiplication area, although the trend varies by country.

The Netherlands, France and Germany together account for 81% of the total area.

• Netherlands: 40,811 ha (-0.70%)
• France: 23,825 ha (-2.27%)
• Germany: 20,540 ha (+0.44%)

Further declines are recorded in Scotland (-5.39%), Denmark (-0.94%) and Belgium (-11.97%). Changes in seed potato multiplication areas may influence the availability of certified seed potatoes for future planting seasons.
 

Changes in leading seed potato varieties

The varietal landscape is also changing. The ten most multiplied varieties cover 32,201 hectares, representing 31% of the total area.

Among these leading varieties:

• The four French fry varieties lose 1,338 ha (-8.4%).
• The two processing/export varieties decline by 237 ha (-3.8%).
• The three export varieties remain virtually stable (+0.01%).

ESPG data show the European seed potato multiplication area declined to 105,155 hectares in 2026, with Germany recording a slight increase while the other five major producing countries reported lower planted areas.